Ancient Americas ‑ Videos

North America’s Ancient Cities

Well before Europeans arrived, North America contained a number of large cities that rivaled those an ocean away.

Aztecs

How and why did the once mighty Aztec Empire crumble in the 16th century? Ask HISTORY looks for answers.

Inca

Inca Emperor Pachacuti rises to power and transforms his kingdom into the largest empire in South America.

Mayan Astronomy

Ancient Mayans studied the skies thousands of years before modern astronomical observatories.

Mayan Architecture

Ancient Mayan structures have lasted thousands of years, and their designs continue to influence modern architecture.

Aztec Aqueducts

The Aztecs built an expansive system of aqueducts that supplied water for irrigation and bathing.

Chachapoya History

In ancient Mexico, Chachapoyans and Incas battled for supremacy.

Mayan Scientific Achievements

The growth of the great Mayan civilization is as much a mystery as its disappearance.

Aqueducts of Palenque

The Mayans prospered for more than two thousand years. Today, their greatest city Palenque still stands.

Chichen Itza

Explore the origins of the Temple of Chichen Itza, a Mayan pyramid in modern‑day Mexico that features several unique features, including an echo designed to sound like a bird call.

This Day in History Video: What Happened on November 16